Mr. Horton, Thank you for all your help with my divorce. You were very understanding, compassionate, and really took the time to explain all my options. You have made a very difficult time in my life alot easier. My children and I are very grateful. Sue Pasadena, MD

Mr. Keatts Thanks for helping us put our affairs in order. We now have peace of mind knowing our children will be protected in the future. We have recommended you to all our friends for their wills. Mike & Tina Elkridge, MD

Divorce

Making the decision to obtain a divorce can be the first step toward a better future for you and your family. But many more steps,some legal, some financial, some personal are needed before you can achieve that goal. We help clients resolve the many issues arising out of divorce, so that they can move forward in life in a positive way.

Separation Agreements

In most cases, in Maryland a couple must be separated for a year before an absolute divorce decree is granted. Even then, if there are outstanding disputes over the division of property, child custody, and other matters, it can take longer. If the parties can come to a separation agreement concerning these issues at any time after they are physically separated, it can greatly speed up a final resolution. At the time of the divorce, the terms of the separation agreement are incorporated into the decree and become enforceable by law. A separation agreement contains exactly what the parties want it to contain. It can cover virtually the complete range of matters arising out of divorce, including child custody and visitation, division of assets and debts, alimony, child support, and other matters. Our firm will first seeks to understand the client's needs, their objectives, and the practical realities of the situation. In discussions with the attorney for the other spouse, we will uncover areas of agreement and areas of contention. Then we will seek to negotiate a fair and workable separation agreement on your behalf.

Child Custody/Child Support

Handling a child cutody matter effectively requires more than just experience and legal know-how. It also means understanding that people going through a custody battle or other emotional domestic matter need and deserve a compassionate ear. At The Law office of Keatts & Horton we are ready to help you through your most pressing and emotional family law problems. Child custody and visitation matters can cause intense emotions, and understandably so. Our legal office provides mechanisms for resolving these disputes.

In Maryland, the amount of child support is determined by guidelines in the statutes. The support level depends on a number of factors, including:

The number of children; The amount of time the children spend with each parent; The parents' incomes; The costs of the children's day care, health insurance; and The amount of any alimony or spousal support, and certain other payments.

Over time, there can be changes in the income of the parents, the child's needs, and the child's living arrangements. In these cases, a modification in the support level can usually be obtained.

Wills/Estate Planning

At The Law Office of Keatts & Horton we help clients throughout Maryland protect their assets and plan for their family's future. With our firm, you will receive insightful and creative estate planning services from a lawyer who understands how to draft wills, trusts, powers of attorney and advanced medical directives that convey your unique wishes. Wills are the most common way for people to state their preferences about how their estates should be handled after their deaths. Many people use their wills to express their deepest sentiments toward their loved ones. A well-written will eases the transition for survivors by transferring property quickly and avoiding many tax burdens. Despite these advantages, many estimates figure that at least seventy percent of Americans do not have valid wills. While it is difficult to contemplate mortality, many people find that great peace of mind results from putting their affairs in order.